Careers
Current Open Positions
Digital
Digital Operations Manager
The digital operations manager will serve as a key member of the Santa Barbara Independent’s leadership team managing the digital products of the Independent. These products include independent.com, company social media accounts, and a series of newsletter products. This position will oversee digital staff and report directly to the Publisher.
The position will partner and maintain strong relationships with editors and directors including marketing and sales to ensure the Independent is competitive in the digital media landscape. The ideal candidate will lead our ongoing integration of digital-first thinking into all aspects of editorial and business planning.
Strong leadership and project management skills will be critical. An understanding of local news, social media platforms and their respective audiences are essential. We are seeking someone not afraid to explore and develop the new frontiers in the digital world, to go where no one has gone before.
Responsibilities will include, but not limited to:
- Oversee accurate, timely, and thorough posting of all articles to the website
- Collaborating with editors on coverage opportunities, using data to understand audiences and inform decisions on content distribution strategy
- Strong understanding of social media platforms and their respective audiences
- Managing ongoing website maintenance and development; including managing modest budgets
- Launching new digital products and technology platforms that include revenue generation
- Attending weekly meetings including with developers, managers, editorial team and lead digital meetings
- Regular monitoring and reporting of digital traffic, including setting and assessment of targets
- Maintain a thorough understanding of competitive media, market research and market share growth opportunities
- Manage user experience on independent.com and newsletter platforms
- Experiment with new ways to grow, engage, and understand audiences
- Analyze workflow of digital department to make recommendations to streamline operations to create efficient cross department processes
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to present research and proposals clearly
- Digital skills, including but not limited to word press, active campaign (or other email marketing platform), social media, photo and video editing, digital analytics and an understanding of digital market trends.
- Onboard, train, and manage new hires and those in direct report roles
- Maintain a digital style and resource guide
- Perform other duties as assigned by management
Education/Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent); emphasis in digital journalism, media communications, or similar tracks preferred and Three to five years’ related management experience. Any combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted for educational experience.
- Knowledge of SEO, keyword research, and Google Analytics
- Demonstrable knowledge of social media management tools and best practices
- Candidate should be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite, and Adobe CC products
- Multitasking and time management skills
- Writing, editing, and communication skills
- Strong team player with desire to collaborate with others
- This position works in our Downtown Santa Barbara office but remote working will be necessary at times by the round-the-clock nature of this position.
Full-time positions include health, dental, and vision insurance; Section 125 cafeteria plan; 401(k); and vacation program.
Starting Annual Salary: $67,000 – $70,000
Please introduce yourself, outline your reasons for interest, and include a brief summary of your qualifications, along with your résumé and clips, to hr@independent.com. No phone calls, please. EOE m/f/d/v
Digital
Social Media Coordinator
The Santa Barbara Independent is looking for a social media coordinator to join our expanding Digital Department. This position would be part-time (approx. 20-25 hours/week) with occasional work outside of normal business hours and weekends. The social media coordinator works directly with the web content manager to ensure the Indy’s social media presence is timely and effective. The ideal candidate will have personal experience with various social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and X, as well as an aptitude for technology and willingness to learn. Looking for motivated individuals who have great attention to detail and are ready to collaborate.
The social media coordinator will oversee the creation and scheduling of the Independent’s various social media posts across multiple platforms. Experience with Adobe Suite products (Photoshop and/or InDesign) is a huge plus, as is an eye for graphic design and general writing skills.
The social media coordinator will also be expected to learn various Digital Department procedures and processes such as the creation of newsletters, building of online articles, and general website maintenance. This position is based out of our Downtown Santa Barbara office, while some hours will be remote. Starting Hourly Rate: $16-$19 per hour.
Please submit your résumé to hr@independent.com. No phone calls, please. EOE m/f/d/v.
Editorial
General Assignment Reporter
The Independent is seeking a general assignment reporter to join the editorial team. In addition to reporting and writing, the job involves collaboration with editors on assignments, cultivating sources, and a general interest in government and civic issues. Knowledge of Santa Barbara County is preferred. This is a full-time position that requires attention to detail, ability to perform under pressure of deadlines, and strong time management skills. Though specific experience in reporting on Santa Barbara is preferred, this is an entry-level position and dedicated workers with strong writing skills may apply. Starting Hourly Rate: $18-$21
Full-time positions include health, dental, and vision insurance; Section 125 cafeteria plan; 401(k); and vacation program.
Please introduce yourself, outline your reasons for interest, and include a brief summary of your qualific